The study examined the sodium intake and weight of 6,235 children between the ages of eight and 18. They found that their subjects were consuming an average of around 3,300 milligrams of sodium daily. A teaspoon of salt—the maximum recommended amount for kids and adults—is only 2,300 mg. The study also found that boys tended to consume more sodium than girls.

The children who had higher sodium intake also had a higher risk for high blood pressure, which can lead to heart attack and stroke; this connection was even stronger for children who were overweight or obese. Researchers suggest taking steps to help kids reduce their sodium intake, and increasing their physical activity to help curb the problem.